NYC's Latest Case of Taxi Deception: A Yellow Prius Caper

A former NYC cabbie, George Caraballo, whose license was suspended in 2013, has been operating an unlicensed yellow cab – his bright yellow Toyota Prius – and has been caught multiple times by the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC).

The Case Against Caraballo

Caraballo was caught twice in six months picking up fares in Manhattan. In November, he received a $1,500 fine for operating without a license after a TLC inspector observed him picking up a passenger for a $26 ride. Just two weeks after pleading guilty to that violation, he was caught again in April, picking up four people near Penn Station for an $18 fare. This time, his Prius was immediately seized.

The TLC is now suing to permanently seize Caraballo's Prius. They argue his actions demonstrate a "flagrant disregard for the rules" and pose a "danger to the public". While an administrative hearing initially ordered the Prius's return after a $2,000 fine, the TLC's lawsuit continues.

Caraballo's Defense and the Mystery

Caraballo's representative claims the Prius operates legally as a taxi in Rockland County. However, when contacted by a reporter, Caraballo denied ever driving a cab and owning a Prius. The discrepancy in his addresses (Rockland County on his license, a NYC address on his registration) adds to the mystery.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in regulating the taxi industry in NYC and the lengths some go to operate illegally.